When it comes to knives, few materials are as sought after as steel. Steel is strong, durable and can be sharpened easily for a long-lasting edge. Two of the most popular steels used in knife making are D2 and S35VN.
While both have excellent qualities that make them ideal for use in knives, they also have some distinct differences. In this article, we will take a look at these two steels and explore the differences between them so you can decide which one is best suited for your needs.
We’ll also go over why each one may be better than the other depending on what you’re looking for in a knife blade. With this information, you should be able to make an informed decision about which steel is right for your project when it comes time to buy or craft your own custom knife!
Contents
D2 vs S35VN Steel: Overview
D2 is a semi-stainless steel, which means it has higher levels of chromium to help prevent corrosion. It also contains large amounts of carbon and molybdenum for added strength and durability. D2 steel is harder than most other steels on the market, making it an ideal choice when you need a blade that will remain razor sharp for a long period of time.
S35VN, on the other hand, is a stainless steel alloy containing more carbon, chromium and vanadium than D2. This combination makes S35VN both strong and durable, but it also makes it slightly harder to sharpen. However, the trade-off is that S35VN steel blades tend to hold their edge longer than those made from D2.
D2 vs S35VN Steel: Properties
When it comes to hardness, D2 steel is usually rated between 59-62 HRC on the Rockwell scale. This rating makes D2 one of the hardest steels available for knife making. On the other hand, S35VN is typically between 58-61 HRC. While this still makes it a very hard steel, it’s not quite as hard as D2.
In terms of strength, both steels are quite strong and stable. However, S35VN may be slightly stronger than D2 due to its higher level of vanadium content. In terms of corrosion resistance, S35VN is the clear winner here as it has higher chromium levels that help it fend off rust and corrosion.
For the wear resistance, D2 is the better choice since it has higher levels of carbon. This makes it more resistant to wear and tear over extended periods of use.
What Makes A Quality Knife?
No matter which steel you choose for your knife, there are some other factors to consider when selecting a quality blade. The first is the heat treatment process used by the manufacturer. This should be designed specifically for the type of steel being used and done properly in order to ensure optimal performance from your knife.
The second factor is the construction of the blade itself. Look for knives that are well balanced, have full-tang construction, and a flat grind. All of these features can help ensure you get the most out of your knife in terms of performance and durability.
Finally, don’t forget to look at other aspects such as handle materials, overall design, and price point. The combination of all these factors will help you to determine which knife is best for your specific needs.
D2 vs S35VN Steel: Which Is Better?
When it comes to picking between D2 and S35VN, the answer really depends on what you’re looking for in a knife blade. If you need a blade that will stay razor sharp for extended periods of time, then D2 is likely the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a blade that will hold its edge longer, then S35VN would be the better option.
Ultimately, both steels offer great qualities and can make excellent knife blades. It’s just a matter of deciding which one fits your needs best. As long as you take the time to research and compare the two types of steel, you should be able to make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
No matter which type of steel you choose, both D2 and S35VN will provide a strong, reliable blade that can handle anything you put it through.